Hi all, I am a newbie to the forum. I just purchased a #438 and an HKS #36-A speed loader. The speed loader binds against the grip and makes it into a slow loader. Has anyone experienced this problem and found a speed loader that works with the factory grip? The grips are the synthetic type, I believe like the Uncle Mikes grips. Your comments will be appreciated.

Hello, and welcome to the S&W forum. There's a lot of choices out there. These two are probably the most commonly used for quicker J-frame reloads. Either way, good luck -Rob


Safariland COMP-1 Speedloaders are a little more user friendly: Safariland COMP-1 Revolver Speedloader Charter Arms, S&W 5-Shot 38 Special Polymer Black - MidwayUSA


I prefer Bianchi Speed Strips (for pocket carry) though: Bianchi 580 Speed Strips 38 Special and 357 Magnum Package of 2 Plastic Black - MidwayUSA

Thanks for the information, I will check it out.

I gave up on the factory grips and installed Hogue Bantams. I couldn't get the Comp-1s' to work either with the factory grips.

You will probably like the grips after 50-100 rounds,they help fill the hand and make shooting more pleasant. Speedloaders and rubber grips are often not fully compatible. Speedstrips may be slower but they are easier for me to conceal and are faster than fumbling with singles for sure so I guess it's a trade off.

I put Crimson Trace Laser Grips on my 638. The Comp1 loaders seem to clear ok. I also use Tuff Products Speed Strips for ccw carry. I have the 7 round models with 5 rounds loaded. That gives you something to get ahold of when loading. I have a couple pouches sewn on the inside of my jacket that look about like single stack magazine pouches for the speed strips. Handy and out of sight.

Bob

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Good video on speedloaders below. You'll just have to try different ones to see which works for you. I use the old Uncle Mike's three finger combat grips and they work well with HKS, SL Variant, Jet Loaders and Comp I's.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS9nlMFj4UY

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